Communities in Oregon have events that over the years have become associated with what it means to be an Oregonian. In short, if you have attended these events, you are truly an Oregonian.

The Oregon Heritage Tradition designation recognizes those events more than 50 years old that represent what it means to be an Oregonian. Designated events are unique locally, regionally, and state-wide.

This is an ongoing designation unless the Oregon Heritage Tradition is discontinued or no longer meets criteria.

The designated event may be considered for a declaration of statewide anniversary celebration at major milestones of 100 years, 150 years, etc., if it meets the criteria for a statewide anniversary celebration.

DefinitionAn Oregon Heritage Tradition is an annual local, regional or statewide event with at least 50 years of continuous operation and:

1. is associated with Oregon people, places, events, and activities that characterize the heritage of the state, its positive accomplishments, and its enduring qualities and traditions; 2. has a demonstrated appeal to a broad spectrum of the public; 3. has a demonstrated public profile and reputation that distinguishes it from more ordinary events; 4. provides participatory activities for the public beyond simply the observation of showcase performances; 5. adds to the livability and identity of the state; volunteerism, community building, economic and tourism development, and community giving are among the livability and identity factors that will be considered; 6. has free or paid admission, and has no membership, age, racial, religious, gender, family or other exclusionary requirements.

Deadline: Rolling.

The Oregon Heritage Commission meets quarterly. Please submit an application at least 60 days prior to a Commission meeting to allow for an application to be processed. The Commission will have an ad hoc committee review the applications and make a recommendation to the Commission at its next meeting.

2) Include up to five supporting materials to supply information about how the event meets the criteria for an Oregon Heritage Tradition.

3) If your event is similar to other events in the state or region, be sure to provide a thoughtful explanation of what distinguishes your event.

Designation:

For events receiving the designation, the Commission will provide an Oregon Heritage Tradition logo to the event’s lead organization. The Tradition’s name will be posted on the Commission’s website and the designation will be included with their city's description in the online Oregon Blue Book.